Can I take Felodipine and Grapefruit together?

You must completely avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking felodipine. Grapefruit significantly increases the amount of felodipine in your blood, which can cause your blood pressure to drop dangerously low and increase the risk of side effects.

Even a single glass of juice or half a grapefruit can significantly increase the amount of the medicine in your bloodstream, and the impact can last for several days.

If you have already consumed grapefruit, monitor your blood pressure and watch for dizziness or a racing heart.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about safe fruit alternatives, such as oranges or lemons.

Why this happens

Your body uses a specific enzyme (called CYP3A4) in the gut and liver to break down felodipine. Grapefruit contains natural compounds that block this enzyme. When the enzyme is blocked, your body cannot clear the medicine properly, leading to much higher levels of the drug than intended.

How to know if you're having a drug interaction

You may be experiencing an interaction between felodipine and grapefruit (including grapefruit juice) if:

• You feel dizzy or lightheaded, especially when standing up.

• You experience headaches or flushing.

• You notice swelling in your ankles or feet.

• You feel your heart beating faster than usual (palpitations).

• You develop low blood pressure symptoms, such as faintness or weakness.

• Symptoms start after eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking felodipine.

What you should do

If you have any of the above symptoms, you should:

• Speak to your GP or pharmacist for advice as soon as possible.

• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking felodipine.

• Do not stop taking felodipine suddenly unless advised by a healthcare professional.

• Seek urgent medical help if you faint or have severe dizziness.

• Attend any blood pressure checks arranged to monitor your treatment.
  

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking felodipine can increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of the medicine. This may make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, especially when standing up. It is best to keep your alcohol intake to a minimum.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.